The Great Lakes Science Center is home to more than 400 hands-on exhibits. The centre’s three distinct areas focus on science, technology, and the Great Lakes environment. Informative and entertaining, these displays cater to a remarkably wide range of interests. Learn about the life of an astronaut, find out about renewable energy sources, or operate a robotic arm. You can also catch a film at the thrilling OMNIMAX theatre and explore the decks of a hundred-year-old steam ship.
The Science Phenomena floor houses over 100 exhibits, with a strong emphasis on interactivity. First learn how a tornado is formed, then experience it ‘first hand’ by sticking your own arm into a miniature one. Stop by the Shadow Room, where you can pull a pose and watch your shadow get fixed to the wall by a photo-luminescent strobe.
Young children are sure to enjoy the Polymer Funhouse, home to over 90 different activities including water features and a ball pool. After a quick break at the centre’s in-house café, continue on to explore the decks of the William G. Mather, a century-old steam ship that was used long ago to cross the Great Lakes.
Make sure you don’t miss the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, a unique chance to learn about the life of an astronaut. Observe how people live in space, where even such simple tasks as eating can be difficult, and take a stroll across a replica Martian landscape. Head to the Biomedical Technology Gallery to discover the workings of an MRI scan, inspect bacteria through a microscope, and control a robotic arm.
The Great Lakes Science Center is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The steam ship is only open on weekends in May, September, and October it is also closed on Mondays during June, July, and August. Entry costs a fee. The centre is located in North Harbor, on the shore of Lake Erie. Take a bus from downtown or drive and use the area’s metered parking.
